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London is one of the most magical cities to visit at Christmas. From it's extravagant light displays and festive ice rinks to cosy markets and holiday-themed activities, it’s a place that knows how to celebrate the season.
Having spent a lot of time in London during the Christmas season, i've put together this guide to help you plan the ultimate Christmas trip to London in 2025. I'll cover the best markets, events and activities, where to see the best decorations and the best time to visit.
When to Visit London for Christmas
The Christmas season in London runs from mid-November through to early January, with lights, markets and festive events starting to appear as early as the second week of November.
In my opinion, the best time to visit is mid-late November, as the lights have just been switched on, Winter Wonderland is open and most of the Christmas markets are in full swing. Crowds are typically smaller and hotel prices are a little cheaper than the peak festive period (December).
If you visit in December, expect crowds at popular places, especially on weekends and higher accommodation prices. However, December can still be a great time to visit, the markets are buzzing and there's a magical christmas atmosphere.
Christmas Day isnt usually a great day to visit as many attractions close, public transport shuts down and restaurants require pre-booking. However, Boxing Day and New Year bring sales, fireworks and big celebrations, and markets and Winter Wonderland are still open until the beginning of January.
Best Holiday Events & Christmas Markets
London has no shortage of festive events, but here are a few of our personal favourites 👇
Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park
The biggest and most famous Christmas attraction in London is Winter Wonderland, a huge festive event that runs from 14 November 2025 - 1 January.
It’s a mix of everything: a huge Christmas market, an outdoor ice rink, rides, circus shows, Bavarian beer halls, ice bars and endless food stalls. You'll need to book a ticket to enter - its free during off-peak times and £5-£7.50 during peak hours!
We've always had a great time at Winter Wonderland, it's definitely one of the best Christmas attractions in London. But, it can definitely get busy in December and in the evening; so we'd recommend heading there earlier in the day for a quieter atmosphere.
Southbank Winter Market
Along the Thames, the Southbank Centre Winter Festival sets up wooden chalets selling food, mulled wine and handmade gifts. It starts from the 3rd November - 4th January, with riverside views and a slightly more relaxed atmosphere compared to Hyde Park.
Sometimes they set up additional attracrions like popup tents or chatlets with seating and a bar area, but this doesn't happen every year. You can get really delicious food here and unique gifts, and it pairs perfectly with an evening walk along the Thames.
Winter Funland at Olympia
Winter Funland is Europe’s largest indoor Christmas experience and it's happening in London for 2025. It's being held inside the Grand Hall at Olympia from 12 December - 4 January and is the perfect option if you want to get festive without worrying about the weather.
Tickets are more expensive than Winter Wonderland, but they do inlcude unlimited rides, a huge indoor ice rink and a festive circus show, so it's better value if you plan to do activities.
Leicester Square Christmas Market
This market transforms Leicester Square into a festive hub with food stalls, crafts and a traditional Santa’s Grotto. There are usually pop-up shows and cabaret performances too, making it a fun option if you’re staying near the West End.
Trafalgar Square Christmas Market
Set beneath London’s famous Christmas tree (a gift from Norway each year), Trafalgar Square hosts a small but charming market with food, craft stalls and carol singing events throughout December.
Other festive markets
There are plenty of other small christmas markets dotted around London that are worth checking out, such as Kingston Christmas Market, Old Spitalfields Christmas market, King's Cross Christmas markets and Borough Market at Christmas to name a few.
Where to See Christmas Lights & Decorations in London
The whole city is often covered in christmas light displays, festive window decorations and colourful installations, but here are some of our favourite spots:
Carnaby Street
Carnaby is always one of the most creative displays in London, we love going every year to see the different themes and lights.
In previous years the theme has included neon signs, giant globes and colourful sculptures - it’s a vibrant, slightly quirky take on Christmas that fits perfectly with Soho’s character. The lights will be switching on 6 November 2025.
Covent Garden
Every year Covent Garden sets up a giant 55-foot Christmas tree in the Piazza, along with giant golden bells and mirror balls and sparkling decorations strung across the historic market hall.
Its a very pretty spot with lots of photo spots dotted around the square, this year the lights will be switching on the 12th November.
Oxford Street and Regent Street
Two of London's most iconic shopping streets turn into the city's most photographed Christmas spots each year. The 2025 switch-on is expected in early November, with thousands of LED stars lighting up the streets.
Combined with the shop windows (particularly Selfridges) it’s a must-see, though expect big crowds, especially in the evenings and at weekends.
Harrods & Knightsbridge
Harrods is unmissable in December, lit up with thousands of lights covering the entire building. Make sure to visit inside too for it's elaborately decorated Christmas windows, luxury gifts and a festive atmosphere that’s as over the top as you’d expect.
The Churchill Arms
Every year the Churchill Arms pub in Kensington switches out it's usual vibrant flower display for a festive makeover of christmas trees and thousands of lights. It's quite spectacular and is worth a visit if you're in the area.
Best Winter Activities in London
Beyond markets and lights, London has plenty of festive activities to keep you busy through the Christmas season. From skating under historic landmarks to enjoying a West End show, here are some of the best winter experiences for 2025:
Ice Skating Rinks
London goes all out with seasonal ice skating rinks and they're often set against beautiful backdrops. The locations do seem to change fairly regularly and the ones we have been to no longer exist, so here are some of the best ones for 2025:
- Winter Wonderland - the UK’s largest outdoor rink, set under a canopy of lights (Opens 14 Nov - 1 Jan)
- Somerset House - the city’s most iconic rink, with a huge Christmas tree in the courtyard and DJ nights (Opens 12 Nov-11 Jan)
- Canary Wharf - a modern rink with a roof, so you can skate in any weather (Opens 25 Oct - 22 Feb)
- Skate Leicester Square - new for 2025, set around the Shakespeare statue (Opens 1 Nov - 4th Jan)
Guided Christmas Lights Tours
Did you know you can actually join a guided Christmas lights tour by an open-top bus, rather than planning your own walking route. Tours usually run from mid-November through December, taking you past the best displays around Oxford Street, Regent Street, Trafalgar Square and more.
Its perfect if you'd rather sit back and relax while seeing the best decorations.
Thames River Cruise
A Thames river cruise is a unique way to see London in the winter, especially if you book after 4pm when London's skyline will be illuminated. If you want to take advantage of the full christmas spirit, choose a dedicated Christmas River Cruise like this one, with festive menus and live entertainment!
Explore London’s Museums
Winter is the perfect time to explore London's museums, most of which are free! Our favourites are The Natural History Museum (while its ice rink has sadly closed) and the Science Museum. Some museums also host special seasonal events and late-night openings in December.
Afternoon Tea in Festive Hotels
Some of London’s grand hotels go all out with decorations and themed menus for the season. The Ritz, Claridge’s and The Dorchester all offer Christmas afternoon tea served in spectacular settings filled with lights, garlands and enormous trees. You'll need to book early though, as these experiences are incredibly popular in December.
Exlore London's landmarks
If it's your first visit to London, you'll definitely want to explore London's most iconic landmarks. You can bundle sightseeing with festivities - think Trafalgar Square with its giant Christmas tree, Westminster’s historic streets or wandering along the South Bank with Christmas lights reflected in the Thames.
Find more spots like this with a sneak peek at our London travel map 👀
If it’s your first time in London, check out my full London itinerary for first-time visitors to make the most of your trip.
See a Theatre Show
No trip to London is complete without seeing a show and you'll find plenty of festive shows throughout the winter season. Pantomimes run throughout December (a British holiday tradition) and this year you can see Elf The Musical, Lovers Actually, A Christmas Carol - A Ghost Story and plenty more.
If you're not in the mood for a festive show, we highly recommend seeing Stranger Things: The First Shadow or The Book of Mormon - two of our favourites!
For more activity ideas, see my full guide to activities to do in London - there are plenty of experiences that work perfectly alongside your Christmas plans.
Chloe Butcher
Where to Stay in London at Christmas
London is buzzing over the Christmas season, so it’s worth booking accommodation early if you want to stay central. The city has something for every style and budget, from luxury hotels overlooking the lights to cosy boutique options in festive neighbourhoods.
Recommended Areas & Hotels
- Covent Garden / Leicester Square - Perfect for first-time visitors who want to be close to theatres, Christmas markets and decorations. Hotels like AMANO Covent Garden or The Savoy are great options.
- Mayfair - Perfect for a festive stay and close to London's main attractions. The Dorchester and The Ritz are both luxury and festive options.
- Knightsbridge / Kensington - Ideal for luxury stays and window shopping at Harrods. The Hari or Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park are classic festive options.
If you want a deeper dive into the best areas, budgets and hotel tips for London, check out my full guide here: Where to Stay in London.
Chloe Butcher
When do Christmas events and markets open in London?
London’s festive season typically starts in mid-November and continues through early January. Most christmas markets, Winter Wonderland and major lights displays will be open from early to mid November.
Are the Christmas markets free to enter?
Yes, most markets, including Southbank, Leicester Square and Trafalgar Square, are free to wander. Some bigger events like Winter Wonderland require a paid ticket to enter during peak time and rides or special attractions inside usually cost extra.
What’s the weather like in London at Christmas?
Expect cold and damp weather, with temperatures usually between 3-10°C. Days are short (sunset around 4pm), and rain is quite common. Snow is rare but not impossible, so pack layers, waterproofs and comfy walking shoes.
How long should I spend in London at Christmas?
A 3-5 day stay is ideal for seeing markets, lights and a few winter activities without feeling rushed. Longer trips give you time for day trips or extra experiences like Christmas cruises or theatre shows.
Chloe Butcher
👋 We hope that you found this guide helpful! Before you go - don't forget to explore our other UK travel guides here & grab our London Travel Map for the best spots you won't want to miss 👀
